Keeler Motor Car Company secures naming rights (and couldn't be more excited about it!!)

Keeler Motor Car Announces Naming Rights Agreement

LATHAM, NY - Keeler Motor Car Company is pleased to announce a five year agreement with The Times Union Center for the naming rights of the now Citizen’s Bank Club set to begin in February of 2012. The club is located on the concourse level of the arena near the Pearl Street entrance.  Maria Dunning, Vice President of Keeler Motor Car Company, which represents Mercedes-Benz, BMW, MINI, Honda and smart in the Capital District expressed that “Keeler Motor Car Company is glad to support the events that the Times Union Center brings to our community. Everyone benefits when we are able to expand the cultural, entertainment and sporting opportunities in our area.”

"I am thrilled that Keeler Motor Car will be our new naming rights partner on the Sports Bar in the Arena.  Keeler Motor Car immediately saw the huge value of advertising their brand/name within the Times Union Center. This commitment of revenue helps cover operating expenses, which also helps keep pricing for tickets and concession items more affordable to Capital Region residents. For companies like Keeler, spending money on advertising in the Times Union Center is a win-win." - Bob Belber, General Manager, Times Union Center.

“Keeler Motor Car, and the Keeler family in particular have a rich and long tradition of supporting Albany County. I am very happy that they are partnering with Albany County again, as sponsors of the Sports Bar in the Times Union Center. It is vitally important to the health of our economy to have the cooperation of businesses such as Keeler Motor Car, as we move forward throughout the new year”.  - Dan McCoy, Chairman, Albany County Legislature County Executive – Elect

Taking one for the Keeler Team

As employers go Keeler Motor Car Company has to be one of the best in the Capital Region.  Not only is it a beautiful facility to work in and three time winner of the Albany Times Union Best of the Capital Region Readers Poll but the employees become like your second family (as I'm sure happens at most workplaces.)  I have been fortunate enough to have worked here for almost 10 years now.  My first position was the Customer Relations Assistant where I was thrown right into the Automotive Industry.  I handled happy customers and some not-so-happy customers.  Helping the not-so-happy turn into Keeler Motor Car advocates had to be my favorite part of the job.  I have since moved on from that position into Marketing/Social Media but this week I took one for the team.  I have been helping out in our Keeler BMW/MINI Service Department and what an eye opener it has been.  I have a completely new found respect for our Keeler Service Departments and the hard work they do on a daily basis.  Starting at 7:30AM and not ending until 6:00PM they field, on average, 100 calls a day - everything from making an appointment and ordering  parts to submitting warranty claims and handling those not-so-happy customers.  My eyes have been opened - for the better I'd say!  So next time you bring your car in for service try to smile for the employees - it will make their day!

Keeler BMW Customer Testimonial

We REALLY love our customers!!!  Check out this testimonial from a very happy Keeler BMW customer.


I would like to inform you about my experiences with Keeler Motor Car Company in Latham, particularly their BMW division.  I had the opportunity to purchase a used X5 earlier in the year for my wife.  She has been very happy with her car and enjoys it much.  The salesperson that helped me was Bruce Gardner and I would like to say he was very helpful and patient with me making my choice.  He has since showed me several more vehicles.
Bruce also helped me deliver the car to my wife as a birthday surprise, working with a schedule that fit my plans.
Since the purchase we have had the car serviced a couple of times and this experience has been pleasant as well.  I would like to comment on our last trip just this week.  After seeing a battery warning light and smelling an electrical burning smell I took the car up to Keeler BMW after the holiday weekend.  I was met by Darin Krupski at the service bay who took all my information and also conferred with the service manager as to the potential problem.  Darin quickly checked me in and helped me with a loaner vehicle.  I have to say that the whole experience was extremely pleasant and painless.  I was in no rush for my car back and Darin kept me updated.  When the vehicle was completed with the service (new alternator) Darin also informed me that they had done the oil service as well as checked and replaced the brake pads.
I believe this level of customer service to be excellent and was very much appreciated.  Over the course of the summer I have been test-driving potential cars I would like to buy for myself in September.  I have met many dealers and salespeople along the way.  I am pleased to say that based on the information above and the excellent service I have experienced with Keeler my next car will be a 335XI.  They truly have matched an excellent product with excellent service and I thank them!
Sincerely,
Pete H.
Australian Winders USA

BMW i8 and 6 Series featured in Mission Impossible 4: The Ghost Protocol

We love it when movie's feature cars...the car's sometimes end up becoming the star of the show.  Remember "The Italian Job"?  The new (at the time) MINI stole the show.  Keeler MINI even had a party in its honor.  Now it's time for BMW to shine.  This morning I saw the Mission Impossible 4 trailer (think it just came out) and the BMW i8 and 6 Series are stealing the spotlight from Tom.  As soon as I saw it posted on YouTube I sent it out to our Keeler BMW employees and everyone was LOVING it!  Below is the video...let us know what you think.  Thumbs up or down?

Keeler Motor Car wins the Times Union Best of the Capital Region 3rd year in a row

We are proud to announce that Keeler Motor Car Company has received the 2011 Times Union Best of the Capital Region Award for Automobile Dealers and Auto Service Shops.  This is the third year in a row that Keeler Motor Car has won this award. 

In its 14^th year, the Times Union has asked its readers to weigh in on what they think is the best about the place we call home.

Nearly 15,000 filled in ballots online and in print (though most came via the Internet). And, unlike previous years, only a handful were deemed invalid for violating the rules against ballot stuffing.

We are extremely proud of this award since it is the Capital Region residents who vote for us.  Thank you to our customers and everyone who voted. 

To see the entire list of winner click here.

Honda Achieves Its Best-Ever Result in 2011 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study

It's no surprise to us at Keeler Motor Car!!! 

June 23 2011

Honda leads industry with seven segment-leading models, more than any other brand

The Honda brand earned its best-ever ranking in J.D. Power and Associates' Initial Quality StudySM (IQS) for 2011, finishing second among all surveyed brands, including premium makes, the company announced today. Honda also led the industry with seven models earning the highest initial quality ranking in their respective segments, including its top-selling Accord and Civic models.

The Acura brand finished third overall in the 2011 IQS.

Read the rest of the press release from Honda after the jump.

The All New 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has arrived at Keeler Mercedes-Benz

They're finally off the truck and in our showroom in Latham, NY - the newly designed 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS.  At first glance this beauty catches your eye.  The redesigned CLS has very sharply sculped long sides and the wrap-around taillights look super high-tech with the addition of new LED lights.

Read some comments on the CLS and see our pictures below.

• "From a pure driving standpoint, the car is responsive in its handling, powerful enough to be highly entertaining and comfortable and quiet." -- AutoWeek 
• "With all the zigging and zagging, we got to know the CLS's new electromechanical power steering (Mercedes calls it a world first for the segment), which provided a direct, balanced feel in every situation we encountered, high speed or low." -- Motor Trend 
• "The long sides of the CLS are sharply sculpted and flow into tightly coiled haunches-the work of American-born, Art Center College-trained, Korean designer Hubert Lee, 37, the head of M-B's California advanced design studio. Wraparound LED taillamps are a beautiful high-tech link from sleek side to broad rear." -- Automobile Magazine 

Keeler Motor Car Customer Testimonial

Nothing makes us happier here at Keeler Motor Car then when we receive customer testimonials like this one!  Thank you so much Phil, self-proclaimed, "Proud MINI Owner and Keeler Motor Car Company Customer."

Hi Ms. Dunning,

Many people dread shopping for a new car.  Options are mind-numbing and then comes negotiating the deal.  Fortunately, I had a fantastic experience at Keeler Motor Car Company, specifically with Brendon and Bill.  Last Friday, I drove from Syracuse with the hope and intention of leaving with a MINI.  When I walked in, I was greeted by Brendon, and exclaimed that I wanted to buy the car on the showroom floor.  (I had already found this car on the Keeler Web site).  I told Brendon my time-frame (leaving with the car that day) and he indicated it would be possible since I was there early enough (I arrived at 1 PM).  

We took a test drive while Brendon explained many of the MINI's features and benefits. When we returned, I met Bill.  Brendon excused himself to help another customer and Bill and I worked the deal.  Bill and I quickly came to an agreement and the deal was on.

From this point forward, everything went like clockwork.  While I removed personal items from my trade, the Keeler Motor Car Company team prepped my new MINI and took care of all of the paperwork.  I was impressed that there were no snags or surprises during the process.

Shortly after 5, I was ready to begin my 150 mile drive home.  The only thing not completed was the activation of SIRIUS Satellite radio.  Bill took care of this immediately and I enjoyed my trek back.

In conclusion, there were certainly others that worked behind the scenes, and I wish I knew who to thank.  So please, extend my gratitude to everyone who worked on the Spice Orange MINI on Friday, 10 June.  As I left, Bill mentioned a survey I would be receiving.  I have no reservations about giving everyone at the dealership the best score possible.

I have sent a thank you card via U.S. Mail, and you have my permission to display it if you'd like. Thanks again!

Sincerely,

Phil

Proud MINI Owner and Keeler Motor Car Company Customer

P.S. Incidentally, I met another fellow from Syracuse who was in for his 1-year maintenance.  He was very happy with his MINI and wished me well on my purchase.  Syracuse would certainly welcome a Keeler MINI dealership!

The 4th Annual Keeler Motor Car Block Party

At Keeler Motor Car Company we love to throw parties for our customers.  We want them to know just how important they are to us and honestly, who doesn't like a good party??  We also plan these events to show our potential customers all the benefits that come along with being a Keeler Motor Car customer.  Well, June 4th is no exception!!  It's the 4th Annual Keeler Motor Car Block Party. 

• Check out vintage Mercedes-Benz vehicles when the
  Mercedes-Benz Club rolls into town
• The Hudson Valley BMW Car Club will be here showing off their classic BMWs
• A host of shined-up MINIs will be on display courtesy of
  the MINI Car Club
• See a "brilliant" gathering of smart cars at our 4th Annual
  smarty Party at smart center Latham
• Live Entertainment from 12:00 - 3:00 by local band The Audiostars

Featuring Mercedes-Benz, BMW, MINI, Honda, smart and Keeler Quality Pre-Owned Center vehicles at Summer Event pricing!

All this and more in one day!
Saturday, June 4th, 10:00am - 5:00pm
Keeler Motor Car Company, Rt. 7, Latham

Video: BMW 1 Series M faces off against Audi TT RS on track

Source:  Autoblog.com via Motor Sport Magazine

The crew from Motor Sport Magazine took the time to pit the BMW 1 Series M Coupe against a fitting rival – the Audi TT RS. The two German sports coupes go fender-to-fender on track, and thanks to a few well-placed video cameras, we get to ride along for the action. There's plenty of tail-wiggling glory from the smallest of the M family, but the TT RS seems more than capable of keeping the pace. With 340 horsepower to the 335 ponies of the TT RS, the 1 Series M Coupe has a slight power edge, but with all four wheels pulling in the Audi, the two are fit rivals.

While the video doesn't actually capture any legitimate competition, it's still fun to watch – and hear – these two pint-sized bruisers frolic around in a semi-controlled, off-street venue. We just wish it was us behind the wheel. 

Keeler Motor Car - Meet our Employees.

Keeler Motor Car and Keeler BMW is happy to introduce you to our BMW Service Manager BMW, Tom Jess. 

What is that you do at Keeler Motor Car? I am the Service Manager for Keeler BMW and Keeler MINI. For the most part I am an interface between departments and between customers and technicians. 

Do you have a family? I have a huge extended family that are scattered all over the US. My immediate family consists of a wonderful wife, one dog and one cat.. 

Have you always been in the automotive industry? I have always been a “car nut”. I went to tech school right out of high school and have been in the dealership environment ever since. 

What do you love about working at Keeler Motor Car? Keeler is a great work environment. You are not a “number” here and you get to work with some of the most talented individuals in the automotive business. This is probably why Keeler Motor Car has the great reputation that it does.

What are some of your hobbies/favorite activities? Some of my hobbies are fishing, playing drums, and camping. 

What are some of your favorite local restaurants? My favorite local restaurant is The Century House hands down.

What kind of car do you drive? Today I drove a van to work, but I do own a BMW 3 Series.

What's your favorite car at Keeler Motor Car? The new 535xi. BMW really got this car right. The fit and finish of this vehicle is exceptional. I would imagine that this is what we can expect for future new models.

What was your first position when you started at Keeler? I started as a MINI technician.

How did you get started? I have a pretty extensive back ground in automotive repair and technology. I grew up on a farm and most repairs needed to be completed on site. I believe this is what gave me the desire to go to college for automotive repair. Since then I just learned as much as I could about the business. I had a lot of great mentors along the way, and I have a great support system now.

What kind of skills or characteristics does someone need to do this job successfully? I believe that analytical thinking and an automotive back ground are a must. Being able to listen and communicate are big factors. I do believe that being honest is probably the most important characteristic, not just in my position but every position.

What advice can you give to anyone who would be interested in doing what you do? Stay in school. Learn as much as you can from a technical position and take classes that have to do with business management and accounting. Be patient and listen to the technicians that have been doing it longer then yourself.

2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

There is not much out there more luxurious then the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.  It embodies everything that Mercedes-Benz stands for, performance, luxury and safety.  2012 looks to be a big year for Mercedes with the new S-Class as the major highlight.  I'm already looking forward to our annual Customer Appreciation party here at Keeler Mercedes-Benz which is always held in the fall.  I have a pretty good feeling that this gorgeous piece of machinery will be the star of show! 

Check out the article below on carmagazine.co.uk about the all new 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class which looks to be available in four different bodystyles including a convertible! 

The new Mercedes S-class arrives in 2012 – and there will be four versions of the new S codenamed W222.
In an attempt to cover an even wider segment of the luxury car market, the new 2012 S-class will be offered in four different bodystyles: standard wheelbase saloon (2012), extended wheelbase saloon (2013), coupé (2013, replaces the CL), and a four-seater convertible (2014).

Woah! That’s a lot of new S-classes!

All future rear-wheel drive Mercs will be based on a brand new components set known as MRA, short for Mercedes Rear-wheel drive Architecture. MRA is subdivided into 93 different modules which is a good indication of how flexible this matrix can be. The only two fixed points are the front and rear firewalls in relation to the axles and the drivetrain.
The next S-class boasts a brand-new four-link front suspension designed to further decouple the steering, braking and damping forces. In the rear, we should find an evolution of the faithful multilink arrangement. Air springs are standard again, but the clever ABC anti-roll system costs extra. ABC can also be had in combination with MBC, short for Magic Body Control.

Magic Body Control? Is that like a magic carpet?

Sort of. Employing two cameras to scan the road ahead, MBC can compensate surface irregularities milliseconds before the car encounters them. Up to 80mph, this option warrants a ride comfort which is second to none. Also new is Magic Light Control (MLC) which adds dynamic full LED headlamps complete with adaptive free-flow light patterns varying with speed, weather and steering angle.
As far as the next-generation ergonomics are concerned, those in the know predict a much easier-to-use Comand system with radically fewer knobs, buttons and switches. Instead, we can allegedly look forward to a single controller which – in combination with the more elaborate steering-wheel – operate all key features and functions.
Instead of a second screen positioned above the centre stack, MB is looking at a large multiple-imagery TFT display in the driver’s primary field of vision. What makes the new infotainment so unique are the much easier access, the vastly superior memory capacity (music, DVD, maps, internet) and the reprogrammable software.

Enough gadgets… What’s under the bonnet of the new 2012 Merc S-class?

The line-up stretches from the 204bhp four-cylinder to the EU6-rated V12 dyno-tested at 544bhp. Not enough grunt? Then you may have to wait for the spiciest AMG menu which is good for 650bhp, sources say.
New motors include the twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 which will be available in 306 and 354bhp form. One rung up, we find two turbocharged V8s promising 435 and 517bhp. Originally, MB intended to offer hybrid options for all new S-class models, but then marketing had a rethink, and now all that’s left are a mix of 204bhp diesel and 109bhp electric motor as well as the 306bhp V6 linked to the same plug-in whispering drivetrain. Mild hybrid is likely to be standard, but the 20bhp e-motor is not quite strong enough to justify an e-mode button.
This won’t change before 2014 when the new nine-speed autobox can accommodate a more potent 45bhp power pack.

How’s the S-class been doing?

Without China, North America and the Middle East, the Mercedes S-class would towards the end of its career be almost dead in the water. In Europe, for instance, sales of the ageing starship fell behind the new Audi A8 and the BMW 7-series in 2010.
A situation Mercedes plans to reverse with W222. It’s all change with the S-class!

Could this be a spy-shot of the new 2012 Honda CR-V sporting a 3rd row seat?

While combing through blogs and internet sites for interesting things to bring you on the Keeler Motor Car blog I came across this on Autoblog.com.  Everyone here at Keeler Honda is super excited to get a look at the newly remodeled 2012 Honda CR-V.  Date of it's arrival is a little up in the air due to the crisis in Japan but we are loving the look so far! 

 

Source: www.autoblog.com

The 4th Annual Keeler Motor Car Block Party

At Keeler Motor Car Company we love to throw parties for our customers.  We want them to know just how important they are to us and honestly, who doesn't like a good party??  We also plan these events to show our potential customers all the benefits that come along with being a Keeler Motor Car customer.  Well, June 4th is no exception!!  It's the 4th Annual Keeler Motor Car Block Party. 

• Check out vintage Mercedes-Benz vehicles when the
  Mercedes-Benz Club rolls into town
• The Hudson Valley BMW Car Club will be here showing off their classic BMWs
• A host of shined-up MINIs will be on display courtesy of
  the MINI Car Club
• See a "brilliant" gathering of smart cars at our 4th Annual
  smarty Party at smart center Latham
• Live Entertainment from 12:00 - 3:00 by local band The Audiostars

Featuring Mercedes-Benz, BMW, MINI, Honda, smart and Keeler Quality Pre-Owned Center vehicles at Summer Event pricing!

All this and more in one day!
Saturday, June 4th, 10:00am - 5:00pm
Keeler Motor Car Company, Rt. 7, Latham

The Mercedes-Benz Center at Keeler Motor Car Co. May Specials

Does this horrible weather in upstate NY got you down?  Well, the Mercedes-Benz Center at Keeler Motor Car Company has the answer for your rainy day blues.  Our Keeler Mercedes-Benz Spring event is here and now through the end of May you can take advantage of these amazing savings!

Stop in to the Mercedes-Benz Center at Keeler Motor Car on Route 7, Latham or visit www.keelermercedesbenz.com to browse our new and used inventory.

Top 10 Reasons to Sign up for AAA

I received an email from the administer of the blog, Satellite Dish that they read our Keeler Motor Car Blog (gasp...someone reads this???) and thought that their post might be a good, informational post for our site.  I couldn't agree more.  Seeing as my mom just had to call AAA to help her with her flat tire (I was so very thankful that I didn't get that call!!)  So here it is and if you get a chance check out Satellite Dish and their "Top 10" blog site.

Source:  (Satellite Dish)

Originally this group was called American Automobile Association and was created when a group of motor clubs got together to create road maps because there weren’t any complete ones around.  That was in 1902 and they have come a long way since then.  Today AAA is made up of 51 auto clubs and they have over 51 million members.  Check out 10 reasons to sign up for AAA.

1. Discounts: Discounts are available for everything from hotels, to car insurance to event tickets.  There are even some restaurants that will give a AAA discount.
2. Roadside service: The roadside service alone is worth joining if you didn’t get anything else.  If you have a flat tire, run out of gas or have a dead battery AAA will send help to you locally so they can get you back on the road quickly.
3. Triptik: These turn-by-turn detailed directions are unmatched by any other roadside service company.  You can include various destinations into the trip and the Triptik will include directions to each destination and then continue on the trip.
4. Auto insurance: AAA has top-notch car insurance and boasts that they can save you money over the other large insurance companies.  If you join it would be well worth your while to get a quote on car insurance to see if they can save you some money.
5. Travel agency: Everything from planning and booking cruises to booking airline tickets and hotel reservations are available through the professional AAA travel agency.
6. Help buying a car: You can research the car you are interested in and do side-by-side comparisons of your top choice.  AAA has all of the latest information about each make and model of car.
7. Gas price survey: AAA surveys over 100,000 different self-serve gas stations all over the country to find out their current gas prices.  These surveys are done on a daily basis so you can plan your journey to take you to the least expensive gas.
8. Defensive driving course: If you take this online course you can receive a discount on your car insurance.  Otherwise, if you have received a moving violation and you have not taken the course in a year then you can take this course to get your ticket dismissed.
9. Travel information and tips: Find a list of what to pack in your RV for vacation.  What do you need to know about driving in a desert?  Which cruises are the best if I want to bring my kids?
10. Hotel rating system: To even be rated each hotel has to meet 27 standards of excellent service.  Then AAA will rate each hotel from one diamond up to five diamonds.  One diamond is a budget friendly option with no extras.  A five-diamond hotel will be a luxury hotel that is pretty expensive, but it will have all of the amenities.  The rest fall somewhere in between.

700 BMW ActiveE coming this summer at $499 per month.

The BMW ActiveE, the first full-electric BMW available to customers, was unveiled today in advance of the New York International Auto Show, where it will make its North American debut. This is another significant step in the BMW Group’s commitment to be a sustainable leader in automotive products and services.
Based on the 1 Series Coupe, the BMW ActiveE will accelerate from 0-60 mph in under nine seconds, making it the first electric vehicle to combine the dynamic characteristics typical of a BMW with the zero-emissions benefits of driving an electric vehicle.  It will incorporate specially-designed lithium ion batteries which are being used for the first time and that allow for a range of around 100 miles in everyday driving.

The batteries will feature liquid heating and cooling, as well as the ability to pre-condition the system while connected to the grid enabling maximum range capability regardless of ambient conditions.
Seven hundred BMW ActiveE vehicles will be coming to the U.S. beginning this fall in metropolitan New York and other select US metropolitan markets. A 24-month lease will be offered for $499 per month with a down payment of $2,250. The reservation process will begin in late summer 2011.
“The BMW ActiveE is part of our ongoing strategy to develop environmentally friendly, yet high-performance vehicles,” said Rich Steinberg, manager of Electric Vehicle Operations and Strategy, BMW NA. “It brings us another step closer to the realization of the BMW i3, which we will launch in 2013.”
In order to help consumers determine if an ActiveE is right for them, the new app, BMW Evolve is now available for download from the Apple iTunes Store and later this month in the Android Marketplace. It was developed with the input of our MINI E drivers and will help drivers track their daily driving habits, regardless of their current car in order to determine if a full-electric vehicle like the BMW ActiveE will fit their lifestyle.  Read the full press release by BMW after the jump.

Keeler Motor Car Company holds fundraiser to benefit the Children's Hospital at Albany Medical Center

During the month of April through May 6th, Keeler Motor Car Company is holding a fundraiser to benefit the Children's Hospital at Albany Medical Center.  For every test drive taken, Keeler Motor Car will donate $25!  It's as simple as that.  Maybe you're in the market for a new car or maybe you just always wanted to drive a Mercedes-Benz S-Class or BMW 5 Series.  You do not have to purchase the car just come in, test drive and know that you just made a contribution to a very worthwhile cause.  Keeler Motor Car is located on Rt. 7, 1111 Troy-Schenectady Rd in Latham, NY just 5 minutes from downtown Albany or short 1/2 hour drive from Saratoga Springs!  Hope we see you soon. 

Meet the MINI Family

Fantastic new MINI video/advertisement that showcases all of the MINI models including the all new MINI Countryman.  Of course you can find all of these gas saving little wonders at Keeler MINI! 

Keeler Mercedes-Benz Internet Special of the Week

Keeler Motor Car is starting a new weekly posting on our blog.  Every week we will highlight one or two of our pre-owned cars.  These cars are priced to sell so you don't want to miss out on these fantastic opportunities.  This week we are highlighting the 2008 Mercedes-Benz C300 from our Keeler Mercedes-Benz Store seen below:

This 2008 Mercedes-Benz C300 has an Automatic Transmission, All Wheel Drive and 32,847 miles.  Click here for all of the vehicle details and pricing.

Keeler BMW Service Advisor to participate in the 2011 MDA Colonie Lock Up Fundraiser

Our Keeler BMW Service Advisor, Tim Wheelock is being sent to “jail” on Wednesday.  He is participating in the 2011 MDA Colonie Lock-Up at the Blu Stone Bistro in Albany, NY on Wednesday, March 30th.  Let’s help support Tim and the MDA – his “bail” is $2400 and is due by Wednesday March 30^th.  Click here to donate online or you can stop by Tim’s office at Keeler BMW in the BMW Service Department.  Every little bit helps.  All monies raised are going to the Double H Ranch in Lake Luzerne.  For every $2400.00 raised MDA will be able to send THREE children to summer camp for free.

Honda Odyssey becomes the only minivan to earn top safety ratings from both IIHS and NHTSA under more-stringent testing guidelines

Well, the Honda Odyssey has gone and done it now...and we couldn't be more proud at Keeler Honda!  Not only has the Odyssey won the highest possible safety rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) but now it has received five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) under their respective more-stringent testing guidelines.  See the official press release from Honda after the jump.

The award winning Honda Odyssey is specially priced for the month of March at Keeler Honda.  You can lease the 2011 Odyssey LX for only $296/month for 36 months.  Click here for more details on the Odyssey special at Keeler Honda located in Latham, NY just north of Albany on Rt. 7.

The NHTSA issues new child seat guidelines

This article is a must read for our Keeler Motor Car parents.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration came out with new guidelines for child seats.  According to their press release, children under the age of two should stay in rear-facing carseats or until they reach the manufacturer's recommended height and weight requirement.  As a parent of a two and (almost) four year old I have to say that there would have been NO way that my girls would have fit sitting rear-faced.  Their poor little legs would have scrunched up and I can just hear the screaming and crying that would have ensued!  I did however wait until they reached the recommended weight to turn them around. 

What do you think about the new recommendations?  You can read the full press release below.

Source:  www.autoblog.com

NHTSA RELEASES NEW CHILD SEAT GUIDELINES

New Age-Focused Guidelines Help Parents Make More Informed Choices

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has revised its child restraint guidelines to be categorized by age rather than by type of child seat in order to keep pace with the latest scientific and medical research and the development of new child restraint technologies.

Under the new guidelines, issued today, NHTSA is advising parents and caregivers to keep children in each restraint type, including rear-facing, forward-facing and booster seats, for as long as possible before moving them up to the next type of seat.

For instance, the safety agency recommends using the restraints in the rear facing position as long as children fit within the height and weight limits of the car seat as established by the manufacturer. The rear-facing position reduces stresses to the neck and spinal cord and is particularly important for growing babies.

NHTSA said that its new guidelines are consistent with the latest advice from the American Academy of Pediatrics which advises parents to keep kids in rear-facing restraints until two years of age or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their car safety seat's manufacturer. There is no need to hurry to transition a child to the next restraint type.

"Safety is our highest priority," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "The 'best' car seat is the one that fits your child, fits your vehicle and one you will use every time your child is in the car."

NHTSA Administrator David Strickland pointed out that while all car seats sold in the U.S. must meet federal child restraint safety standards, he said, "Selecting the right seat for your child can be a challenge for many parents. NHTSA's new revised guidelines will help consumers pick the appropriate seat for their child."

Administrator Strickland said that parents should also consider other factors when selecting a car seat, including their child's weight, height, physical development and behavioral needs, as well the family's economics and type of vehicle.

Additional recommendations for child seat use from NHTSA include the following:

• Always read child seat manufacturers' instructions and the vehicle owner's manual for important information on height and weight limits and how to install the car seat using the seat belt or the LATCH system.

• All children under 13 should ride in the back seat.

• Children in rear-facing car seats should never ride in front of an active passenger air bag.

Keeler Motor Car - Pot of Gold Sales Event

It's March and what better time to have a Pot of Gold sales event?!  Keeler Motor Car has pushed the boundries yet again with its newest TV ad.  This ad (produced by our advertising agency) is not only in High Def but also 3D!!!  If you have a 3D TV and have seen our ad let us know how you like it by commenting below.

The BMW X3 Difference Event at Keeler BMW

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE WHEN THE BMW X3 TAKES ON THE COMPETITION

You're invited to an impressive comparison event between the X3 and its competitors. It's an experience that will have you talking for weeks to come. Get behind the wheel of an exhilarating all-new BMW X3 SAV. and then, at the same event, get behind the wheel of one of its competitors - and experience the difference. As our thanks for participating in The BMW X3 Difference Event, you'll receive a complimentary gift with the purchase or lease of an all-new 2011 BMW X3.

Experience firsthand the all-new BMW X3, completely redesigned from the ground up. You'll feel how the smooth power of a BMW engine, harnessed by the efficient 8-speed automatic transmission, stacks up against the competition. You'll discover how xDrive, BMW's intelligent all-wheel-drive system, helps keep you in control in virtually any conditions. To top it all off, you'll enjoy the X3's beautifully crafted interior and comfortable seating for up to five adults, with an additional 26 cubic feet of cargo space. It's all part of this incredible one-day-only driving event.

Don't miss the chance to experience The BMW X3 Difference Event. While you're at our BMW center, don't hesitate to ask about other BMW models. Discover why BMW is The Ultimate Driving Machine.

Spaces are limited for this event, so sign up now for your preferred driving time slot. To register, please visit bmwusa.com/X3Difference or call 1-866-905-4BMW (4269).

Date:  April 2, 2011

Time: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Location: Keeler BMW

1111 Troy Schenectady Rd

Latham, NY 12110

Japan devestation - Honda pledges support

During catastrophic times such as these in Japan, it is the human spirit and goodwill that truly shine through.  By now all of us here at Keeler Motor Car and our customers have certainly seen the devastation caused by the earthquake and subsequent Tsunami that followed.  Our hearts go out to the people of Japan and all their friends and family.  Yesterday, Japanese Automakers including Honda, Toyota and Nissan came together and donated $3.75 million each toward the relief efforts in Japan.  Honda has also promised to supply 1,000 generators along with 5,000 gas canisters.  Honda will also dispatch its staff to explain the use of the equipment.  The Honda family of companies in North America will establish special matching gift programs for their associates for donations to the Red Cross to aid the victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan.  Donations from associates will be matched on a dollar-for-dollar basis, with no personal or corporate donation limit.  Honda employs more than 29,000 associates in North America.

Source:  Honda News

We are so proud to be a part of the Honda family and couldn't be more proud of their relief efforts.  To donate to the American Red Cross click on the link below.


https://american.redcross.org/site/Donation2?idb=0&5052.donation=form1&df_id=5052

The 4th Annual Keeler Indoor Sidewalk Sale is THIS weekend!

WE KNOW YOU'VE BEEN WAITING AND NOW ITS HERE!

KEELER MOTOR CAR COMPANY’S 4TH ANNUAL INDOOR...YES INDOOR SIDEWALK SALE.  NEVER OVER THE LAST 3 YEARS HAVE WE BEEN ABLE TO OFFER SUCH REAL VALUES.  WITH OVER 200 LOW MILEAGE PRE-OWNEDS INCLUDING DEMO'S, LEFTOVERS AND ONE OF KINDS.

COME IN OUT OF THE COLD TO KEELER MOTOR CAR COMPANY IN LATHAM ON RT. 7 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26TH AND SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 27^TH TO BROWSE OUR 30,000 SQUARE FOOT SHOWROOM PACKED WITH  IMPORTS AND DOMESTIC CARS, TRUCKS, SUVS, SAV'S AND EVEN CONVERTIBLES STARTING FOR AS LOW AS $7,995.  WE'LL EVEN MAKE YOUR FIRST 3 PAYMENTS ON SELECT MODELS WHICH ARE ALL BACKED WITH THE KEELER MOTOR CAR WARRANTY AND OVER 40 YEARS OF INTEGRITY. 

WE KNOW YOU'VE BEEN WAITING AND NOW IT’S HERE

THIS SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26^TH AND SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 27^TH.

KEELER MOTOR CAR COMPANY’S 4TH ANNUAL INDOOR SIDEWALK SALE.  WHY SHOP FOR A CAR IN THE COLD?  FOLLOW  THE FOOTPRINTS TO OUR WARM SHOWROOM AND YOU'LL SAVE THOUSANDS.

SALE STARTS AT 10AM ON SATURDAY AND 11AM ON SUNDAY

FIN US ON FACEBOOK OR GO TO KEELER.COM FOR SPECIAL SALE LISTINGS.

Keeler Motor Car President's Day Sale - going on NOW!

We are celebrating President's Day here at Keeler Motor Car by passing some unbelievable savings on to you.  Each of our stores, Keeler Mercedes-Benz, Keeler BMW, Keeler Honda, Keeler MINI and the smart Center Latham have amazing offers for you to choose from.  See our ads below or go to our website to view our complete new inventory or pre-owned inventory.

smart delivers its first smart fortwo electric drive to Mindy Kimball of Silver Springs, MD

Jill Lajdziak deliver smart fortwo electric drive to Mindy Kimball of Silver Spring, MD

Washington, DC (January 26, 2011) – smart USA Distributor LLC, a subsidiary of Penske
Automotive Group, Inc. (NYSE: PAG), today delivered the first smart fortwo electric drive to a
retail customer in the United States. Penske Automotive Group Chairman Roger Penske and
smart USA President Jill Lajdziak made the ceremonial delivery to Mindy Kimball at her home
in Silver Spring, MD.

“This is a groundbreaking day for smart in the United States,” said Lajdziak. “We are extremely
excited to add the smart fortwo electric drive to the smart product lineup, solidifying our
position as a key player in transportation electrification.”

Mindy Kimball is a 36-year-old early adopter of electric vehicle technology and a Major in the
United States Army. Kimball chose the smart fortwo electric drive after thoroughly comparing
and evaluating every electric vehicle available because she believes smart’s offering is the
most modern electric car on the market. She has been a volunteer presenter with The Climate
Project since 2007, educating the public about the science of climate change and the ways to
reduce negative impacts on the environment. Kimball is also an active member of the Electric
Vehicle Association (EVA) of Washington, DC, and she will display her new car in the EVA/DC
booth at the 2011 Washington Auto Show. smart USA will have three smart fortwo electric
drive vehicles at the auto show including the “Advanced Technology Superhighway” exhibit.
The smart fortwo electric drive is a zero-emission vehicle and the ultimate visual statement on
conservation. It is powered by a 30 kW magneto-electric motor and 16.5 kWh lithium-ion
battery. According to the U.S. EPA LA4 test cycle, the smart fortwo electric drive can travel up
to 98 miles on a full charge. In combined city and highway driving, the U.S. EPA estimates the
range on the smart fortwo electric drive to be 63 miles. Using a 220 volt outlet, it takes only
three and a half hours to charge the battery from 20 to 80 percent of its capacity and about
eight hours to reach full charge from a depleted battery.

This year, smart USA is strategically placing 250 smart fortwo electric drive vehicles across the
United States with companies, municipalities, organizations and individuals interested in
-moremaking a passionate statement on conservation and environmental awareness. Series
production on next-generation vehicles for retail sale through smart USA’s dealer network is
expected in 2012.

Mindy Kimball becomes the first member of “Team 250,” an elite club, featuring a concierge
service, for all smart fortwo electric drive lessees. Each Team 250 member will have personal
access to smart USA’s electric drive expert, 24/7 roadside assistance, receive electric drive
communications, and be able to participate in dialogue around their electric drive experience.
Members of Team 250 will also have the first opportunity to move into the next-generation
smart fortwo electric drive vehicle.

The smart fortwo electric drive is available for lease through participating smart USA
dealership locations at http://www.smartusa.com/electricdrive.

About the smart fortwo and smart USA
smart USA Distributor LLC, headquartered in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, is the exclusive
distributor of the smart fortwo in the United States and Puerto Rico and is a wholly owned
subsidiary of Penske Automotive Group, Inc. The smart fortwo is a brand of and is
manufactured by Daimler AG. The smart fortwo and the smart fortwo electric drive form a
portfolio of sustainable, forward-looking technologies for urban mobility. The smart fortwo
achieves an EPA estimated 41 mpg on the highway and is an ultra-low emissions vehicle, as
certified by the State of California Air Resources Board. The smart fortwo is available in three
trim levels starting in price from $12,490* to $17,690*. The smart fortwo electric drive is the
ultimate zero-emission visual statement on conservation and environmental awareness and is
available for lease. Both vehicles measure 8.8 feet long, 5.1 feet tall and 5.1 feet wide and
come equipped with many functional and safety features. smart is currently sold in more than
40 other countries, and more than one million smart fortwos have been sold since 1998.
*Excludes tax, title, registration, destination charge, options and other dealer fees.

About Penske Automotive Group
Penske Automotive Group, Inc., headquartered in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, operates 323
retail automotive franchises, representing 39 different brands and 25 collision repair centers.
Penske Automotive, which sells new and previously owned vehicles, finance and insurance
products and replacement parts, and offers maintenance and repair services on all brands it
represents, has 172 franchises in 17 states and Puerto Rico and 151 franchises located
outside the United States, primarily in the United Kingdom.

Penske Automotive, through its wholly-owned subsidiary smart USA Distributor LLC, is the
exclusive distributor of the smart fortwo vehicle and related parts in the United States. smart
USA supports over 75 smart retail centers in the United States and Puerto Rico. Penske
Automotive is a member of the Fortune 500 and Russell 1000 and has approximately 14,100
employees. smart and fortwo are registered trademarks of Daimler AG.
Caution Concerning Forward Looking Statements
Statements in this press release may involve forward-looking statements, including forward-
-morelooking statements regarding the anticipated availability of future products. Actual results may
vary materially because of risks and uncertainties, including external factors such as consumer
credit conditions, adverse conditions affecting a particular manufacturer, macro-economic
factors, and other factors over which management has no control. These forward-looking
statements should be evaluated together with additional information about our business,
markets, conditions and other uncertainties, which could affect our future performance. These
risks and uncertainties are addressed in Penske Automotive's Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 2009, and its other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission
("SEC"). This press release speaks only as of its date, and we disclaim any duty to update the
information herein.
For additional information, visit www.smartusa.com or www.penskeautomotive.com

Autoblog.com posts a fantastic review on the 2011 Honda Odyssey

My mornings at Keeler Motor Car consist of; punch in, turn my computer on, check email, check voicemail, get coffee and skim my RSS Feeds for relevant content on any of our franchises....Mercedes-Benz, smart, BMW, Honda, and MINI.  One of my favorite blogs is Autoblog.com.  They have a healthy mix of useful information on the industry, product reviews, new product launches, "green" information on the automotive industry and then they throw in some comedy relief every once in a while (just to name a few things!)  Yesterday I was skimming through Autoblog.com and came across a fantastic review on the 2011 Honda Odyssey.  Let me tell you, it's few and far between to come across a review that is so glowing in nature.  Guess that just goes to show you how amazing the 2011 Honda Odyssey really is. 

Below is the article in its entirety:

While we shouldn't be shocked by anything coming out of Madison Avenue, part of me is incensed to hear Honda using Judas Priest to advertise its new Odyssey. That's right, the opening riff of the greatest album from the gods of heavy metal deployed, not in the service of Satan, but to sell a minivan?

While the 18-year-old headbanger in me would like to stand up and rail against Honda ("If you think you're going to make me think your stupid soccer mom taxi is cool, well, You've Got Another Thing Coming!"), the truth of the matter is that Honda's ad agency nailed it. We're not teenagers anymore. We've grown up and had families. I even own a minivan, and, indeed, there is at least one Judas Priest CD that lives in the center console. And after driving the new Odyssey for a week, I have serious van envy. Honda has crafted the ultimate, state-of-the-art people mover, even if it's not much more than some flashy design and incremental improvements in areas like powertrain, fuel efficiency and equipment.

The biggest changes in the redesigned Odyssey are obvious at first glance, as it no longer looks so much like a conventional minivan. Honda's ideas on styling have been polarizing as of late (read: the Accord Crosstour is ugly as sin), so it's smart that the company chose the Civic as the donor of the new minivan's face. The venerable compact is still the most complete and fluid execution of modern Honda design language, and what it lends to the Odyssey works to make Honda's largest vehicle appear smaller and sleeker. It helps that the Odyssey has a lower and much wider stance, having been stretched over two inches across.

While its front and back sections don't exactly mate up well in profile, each works on its own. The flying buttress D-pillar helps the rear end achieve a more contemporary look, like that of many crossovers. Honda is calling the quirky jog in the beltline at the Odyssey's C-pillar a "lightning bolt," and it's more than just a clever device to give the vehicle a dynamic, moving-forward look. That little dip makes the third-row windows bigger and increases the feeling of roominess for passengers in the way back.

Honda clearly wants to make the back of the bus a more desirable place to ride, and it's come up with some enticing new features to serve the rear-seaters' needs. The first is that the third row now has two sets of LATCH anchors, while the second row can be had with three. These carseat attachments mean more than horsepower to breeder parents, and the Odyssey has more of them than the competition.

The second row is interesting in that Honda has decided not to follow Chrysler into its folly of designing seats to fold into the floor like those in the third row. Understanding that it's the rare day when you want to use your minivan like a pickup truck, Honda instead designed a system that allows the second-row seats to be moved laterally to make more room for passengers or car seats, while improving third-row access through the center in the process. The optional second-row-center seat can even be moved forward to place an infant carseat closer to mom and pop in the front. This is smart engineering trumping gimmicky marketing. Up front, the cockpit is functional and the controls are similar to any number of other Honda or Acura vehicles (save for a dash-mounted shift lever). While having a central LCD display with a field of buttons and one large controller knob below seems to be the industry norm these days, it's unfortunate to see Honda abandoning the touch-screen interface that made its in-car navigation systems the class of the industry a decade ago. Also upsetting is Honda's decision to place the climate controls above those for the audio and navigation systems, a huge flaw when you consider that many drivers will set an automatic temperature setting and then rarely look at it.

Behind the wheel, the Odyssey is a nice driver, though it no longer feels as much like an Accord. It's not that this new version of what used to be the best driving minivan on the market can't corner, but that the steering doesn't provides as much feel as its predecessor.

If the Odyssey drives more like a minivan than a station wagon now, it certainly doesn't accelerate like one. Honda's 3.5-liter V6 makes 248 horsepower in the 2011 Odyssey, along with 250 pound-feet of torque. It revs quickly and has great throttle response, and Honda has done a masterful job of matching the gear ratios of the new, optional six-speed automatic transmission to make the Odyssey move. This is a minivan than can go quicker than it should, at least with babies onboard.

Honda has also included its Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system as standard equipment. This shuts down two or three of the V6's cylinders when they're not needed, improving fuel economy. This and some other measures, including a 50-to-100 pound weight reduction, have helped the Odyssey boast some impressive EPA numbers for a roughly 4,400-pound vehicle. With the standard five-speed automatic, the van is rated at 18 mpg city, 21 combined and 27 on the highway. The six-speed automatic improves each of those numbers by a single mile-per-gallon, and that's tops among any vehicle that can carry eight passengers.No minivan these days would be complete without some sort of video screen for the kids, and Honda has gone big in this department with an optional 16.2-inch widescreen that folds down from the headliner in the second row. (A more conventional nine-inch screen is also available.) Before you get too excited about having a display larger than a MacBook Pro in the Odyssey, however, understand this is really just two normal-sized displays mated into a single, wide LCD panel. While it's possible to stretch out a single video source to cover the entire screen in a grotesquely distorted aspect ratio, the more useful application is to allow each side of the vehicle to select a separate input source for their half of the screen, choosing from the DVD player, composite auxiliary inputs and an HDMI port.

While this HDMI port is bound to get video game geeks excited, it's more of a way for Honda to future-proof its van than anything else. The screen in the Odyssey is still pretty small, making most modern video games designed for widescreen, high-definition displays difficult. Your World of Warcraft addiction will have to be a lot more severe than mine to want to play in the back of an Odyssey.

As much as I like the Odyssey, I do have three caveats that are absolutely worth mentioning. The first is an audio system that had issues outputting varying levels of distorted sound across all audio sources throughout a 1,000-mile roadtrip, making even podcasts unlistenable. I'm trusting the tester was merely defective, and that this isn't a widespread problem with Honda's Active Noise Cancellation system, which uses the audio system to make the interior of the vehicle quieter.

The second issue is an aesthetic one: Why can't Honda hide the Odyssey's door track? Honda knows the importance of styling, given how much its redesign of the Odyssey was based on making a van that looked different from any that have come before. So why is it, then, that this company continues to allow these giant gashes on either side of the minivan to persist. Toyota and Chrysler tuck their door tracks under the third-row window, and such a configuration would make all the difference in tidying up the Odyssey's busy rear, which looks too much like it has been on the losing end of a battle with a guardrail.My final complaint has as much to do with my own financial situation as it does with Honda, but $40,775 to get an Odyssey with the six-speed automatic seems a wee bit dear. That's an exceptional amount of money when the base model costs just $27,800. Whatever happened to paying an extra $1,500 for the better transmission? Why is the six-speed transmission bundled with a nav system and DVD player? This kind of business practice is akin to a cell phone provider offering a cheap plan with a token few minutes for thirty bucks, and then charging twice that amount to get enough minutes to actually use your phone.

As fantastic as the Odyssey is, there's a bigger question at hand: Can it (or Toyota's "Swagger Wagon," or a nicely revamped Grand Caravan from Dodge, or the all-new Nissan Quest) convince the masses that minivans aren't the automotive equivalent of wearing sweatpants? Surely there are a sizable amount of people who wouldn't drive a minivan even if it came with a personal invitation from Rob Halford himself. But Honda thinks that this market is primed for growth, and that's reasonable speculation. With plenty of consumers making the SUV-to-crossover jump in the interest of cutting their fuel bills while maintaining a capacious interior, giving minivans another look is the smart thing to do.

END OF ARTICLE

Although the writer does have a couple of issues with the minivan they're nothing to stop you from buying this road warrior!  But check it out for yourself - you be the judge - I promise you will not be disappointed.  Stop in to Keeler Honda and take a test drive of one of our many in-stock 2011 Honda Odyssey's or call us at 518-785-4197 and ask for Keeler Honda.